TOMMY DOWD was the Meath star when the All Ireland champions beat National League champions Kerry in Foynes, Limerick, last night.

It was Meath's last outing before they put their title on the line against Dublin on Sunday week. Both sides fielded close to full strength in a game which was quite physical at times. Kerry did best in the first half, at the end of which they led 1-6 to 0-5, with their goal coming early on from Denis O'Dwyer.

However, Meath totally dominated the second hall, during which Kerry could manage only a single point from substitute Dara O Cinneide.

Tommy Dowd got Meath's goal and emerged as top scorer by also adding four points. Trevor Giles also had five points, while PJ Gillie, who only returned to the squad recently, also performed admirably.